Obituary of James J. Johnstone

James Johnstone 71, of Clinton Township and St. Augustine, Fla., died peacefully at home after a long illness, surrounded by his children and longtime companion Kathleen Trued. He was born Aug 2, 1934 in Detroit. Mr. Johnstone was a proud graduate of Michigan State University. He taught science and math for 30 years for Fraser Public Schools. He was a political activist and union leader who co-founded MEA-NEA Local 1, a coalition of teacher unions throughout Macomb and Wayne counties. He served as a justice of the peace for eight years, as a delegate to the 1976 Democratic Convention, and in many elected positions in the Fraser Education Association the Michigan Education Association and the National Education Association. He supported a variety of social issues, including Dr. Martin Lutheran King’s presentation on the mall in Washington, D.C. He was a active member of NOW, PFLAG, Michigan Women’s Historical Association, B’NAI Brith, NARL, ACLU and the Knights of Columbus, MDP, MSU & Hospice of Michigan. Upon his retirement he enjoyed his residences in Clinton Township and in St. Augustine. He served on the Macomb County Board of Canvassers, working on county elections. He is survived by his children, Mary Johnstone (Harper Perkins), Tina, Jamie (Laura), Peter (Esther), Margie Haloostock (Art), SueAnn Dunleavy (Christopher) and Polly (Jay Jones); Brother William Johnstone (Ellen Diagustino) of Mission TX. 12 grandchldren and two great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held in the near future to honor and celebrate his life and accomplishments. Memorials may be donated to the above organizations. Arrangements by the Cremation Society of Michigan, 313-839-4100. Please share a memory in Jim's guestbook.